Contemporary Instrumental New Age Review: Derek Wille-An Approaching Storm

Release Date: October 15, 2021

Label:  ‎myndstream

Website

We all need music; it's an intrinsic part of the human condition, not by coincidence. It is a direct reflection and influence on that. With that one thought alone, it encapsulates what it means to me, and it is all-inclusive. I seek sounds that move me, settle me down, enrich my spirit like nothing else on the planet. That is a tall order for sure.

Fortunately, being connected to so much of this great music is a regular event. Much of what I hear is piano-based. That may sound one-dimensional; however, that could not be further from the truth.

Derek Wille is a prolific composer and musician presenting his latest project, An Approaching Storm. The recording entails ten tracks ranging from 3:17 to 4:41 minutes in length. As you will discover upon your initial listen, the time frames are perfect for each arrangement. From my viewpoint, with music like this, I never anticipate a certain amount of time to elapse; that is irrelevant. What is important is it allows me to relax and focus on my inner spirit and put me in a better space than what I was in before I started.

All music was composed and performed by the artist with mixing by Michael Whalen and the mastering by Tom Eaton.

What I continue to have a fascination with is the versatility of the piano. Along with the complexities of each composition, it is a true mystery to me how someone can create such perfect beauty. What we hear as the listener are flowing rhythms and changing tones and colors within each track. As Derek says, "Solo piano is personal, intimate, and real..." I think that is a significant statement, and it does apply to my world and how I accept and interpret each audio work of art. Therein lies the key to the satisfaction I found in this entire recording.

I took note of the purposefulness of "Green In Blue," and my immediate thought was how the track eases into the pace. If you mix green and blue, you get blue-green, two distinct colors merging to give birth to another color. The track's speed makes you stop and think, and it worked instantly for me; others will indeed find something completely different. That is why music is so important to us all, the freedom of one's creation within the consciousness of your mind.

Speaking of rhythms, "Melody's Melody" is an excellent example of simplicity in an arrangement yet unmistakable impact one track can have. It is piano music and all its charm and ambiance on display all in under four minutes. "Cindy K." comes at a much faster pace with many elegant tinkling of the keys. It was my thought that this person must hold some significance in Derek's life. His playing is excitable yet concise and meaningful.

Those are a few examples of what you can and will experience listening to this immaculately performed and produced music. The cover art says it all, there is An Approaching Storm, and before it arrives, you can prepare the inner calm by listening.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder
October 11, 2021

Tracks:
01. An Approaching Storm (3:17)
02. Last Kiss (3:43)
03. Persistence (3:52)
04. Cold Day (4:41)
05. Still Friends (4:21)
06. We Made It (4:06)
07. Song for Linie (4:14)
08. Green In Blue (4:12)
09. Melody’s Melody (3:39)
10. Cindy K. (3:55)

Classical-New Age Review: Lisa Swerdlow-Coming To America (EP)

Release Date: September 17, 2021

Label:  Independent‎

Website

The sound of music brings us many gifts. Lisa Swerdlow is an interpreter of those gifts via the piano. She has overcome obstacles that got in the way of her life and music, which includes cancer.

The music heals, and those in sync with that vibration know this to be a fact. I live it every day, listening to those healing sounds that separate me from the clutter of many thoughts and self-imposed stresses.

With the Coming To America EP and the three tracks that encompass the recording, you will hear the absolute passion and love Lisa has for her instrument of choice. Each track is over 3 minutes in length and fully orchestrated by Doug Hammer.

With classical music, you will hear the elements of new age as well. That is where new age builds a foundation then crosses over into other expansive musical territories, which has been evident from the birth of the genre. This project is a classical concerto of love and devotion to a genre. And that foundation finds a way to build a fortress of beauty and elegance. With the beliefs in a new age mindset and or practice, it all comes to life, with meaning.

The beautiful orchestrations found in each composition are the axiomatic icing on the cake. All though I thoroughly enjoyed this work of art, it was too short. I wanted to hear more, but I could always play it again. With so many nuances articulated within each composition, this kind of music would be worth every listener’s time to give it more than one spin. I think that puts everything into the proper perspective for those seeking the comfort and solace of instrumental pieces offered on this EP.

Every day brings us new perspectives on life and how we process those events. With that thought in mind, I believe music is our savior regardless of what happens. How we decide to react is our choice and listening to music is a choice as well. I choose to hear what the music is saying because it is a spiritual thing for me; I can only hope that listeners can find that same path and listen to gifted artists like Lisa Swerdlow.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder
October 6, 2021 

Tracks:
1. The Arrival
2. The Crossing
3. Home of My Ancestors

Contemporary Instrumental/New Age: Stephen Peppos-Botanical

 Release Date: October 18, 2021

Label:  ‎Sonic Bear Music

Website

Botanical carries the theme of nature and all its beauty through the music. Based on my experience with Stephen’s music, I expect to find intrigue everywhere throughout my listen. I am glad to report that is what happened.

“Sun Dancer” and the title track “Botanical” were the peak of this musical evolution for my ears. The different sounds, rhythms, and various instrumentations merge into a burst of color and light. With that thought and perception, you can see how the connection to nature and its bounty aligns with this expressive music that brings different shades, colors, and light to you aurally.

This magnificent artistry found through the eleven tracks on this recording offers individual listeners their soundscape to create images that come to mind, hopefully, those suggested through the track titles.

What you will enjoy on Botanical is an eclectic musical diversion that will enrich your soul. From contemporary instrumental, world, and all built from a new age perspective, Stephen Peppos invites you into his magical musical garden of delights. He brings you “Sunshine” to enlighten you and nurture and uplift your spirit. And that track, in particular, has a world flavored ambiance injected with vocals from another country would be Africa. That kind of ability and worldly diversity keeps it all fresh and inviting from start to finish.

I noted all of the fantastic rhythms and bass that run like a tapestry intrinsic to every track. A giant cross-section of listeners will enjoy music like this, and it knows no boundaries, only those that are self-inflicted by a listener. You can find a true sense of joy and hope on Botanical with an open mind and heart. I certainly did, and with an immense amount of respect for its creator.

Stephen Peppos knows how to create exciting music. It is hard to define but delightful to listen from track to track.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder
October 1, 2021

Tracks:
01. MORNING  5:17     
02. ABOVE THE TREES  5:01       
03. DANCING DAHLIAS  5:39    
04. SUN  DANCER   6:38     
05. BOTANICAL  5:41       
06. PEPPERMINT  GARDEN  5:15   
07. SUNSHINE  5:03     
08. JOY IN THE SUMMER  4:56    
09. NOCTURNAL  4:11   
10. THE  FLOWERS  WILL  BLOOM  EARLY  THIS  YEAR  5:36
11. HOPE A NEW  5:57

Featured Track: Al Jewer and Andy Mitran -Emerald

"Emerald" is 5 minutes and 42 seconds of new age instrumental bliss created by long-time musical partners Al Jewer & Andy Mitran with guest Hans Christian on the cello.

 

The track is mesmerizing, and it sparkles with the luminescence of the moon on a clear night. 

The combination flutes (Al), cello (hans), marimba, percussion, hand drums, synth, and brass (Andy) is very effective.

 

"Emerald" was released August 25, 2021, and can be streamed and purchased on Bandcamp.

 

The eye-catching brilliance of the cover art for the track sets the tone before listening. Everything about the image projects what is needed, and the track is a real gem, just like the beauty on the cover.

 

"Emerald" will undoubtedly get some recognition for the work of art it is. I look forward to hearing more tracks with a similar combination of artistry from this fantastic trio.

Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck

Website: http://www.al-jewer-and-andy-mitran.com

New Age Ambient Review: Cheryl B. Engelhardt-A Seeker’s Slumber

Release Date: July 23, 2021

Label: ‎Independent

Website

Last year’s award-winning Luminary was my introduction to the fascinating artist Cheryl B. Engelhardt. Now with A Seeker’s Slumber, I did not know what to expect because what I found out by interviewing this lady was, she was willing to experiment and take risks to grow as an artist. Not every artist is ready to approach things that way, particularly if they already have a successful formula that works every time they release an album. With that in mind, I have the utmost respect for Ms. Engelhardt.

Now I am challenged with putting this music into an appropriate genre, however never into a box. Cheryl thinks out of the box at all times. Yet another reason why I enjoy the music so much! So, I am ready again for a new journey and a different road as I jump in with energy and optimism.

Are you a seeker looking for slumber? While this music may get you there, you may also be surprised by the eclectic sounds on the ten tracks. Cheryl has a superb voice, and I found it very inviting and spiritual. The lyrics will require your attention, as they are essential as the music accompanying them.

While I am hard-pressed to define this work of art presented here at times, I can say, yes, it is New Age. The other factor that I would say unequivocally is that different genres find a way of branching off it. There is electronic, ambient, easy listening, contemporary, and even slight hints of pop. But keep in mind, the foundation is built from the soul of a prolific artist and translated as new age music. For my listening pleasure, this is a highlight and always an unexpected delight. The musicianship is once again excellent and performed at a very high level, just as I would expect.

Some of my favorites are “Unwind,” “Temperance,” and the excellent opener “Ithaca.” I cannot say enough about the creativity and all-around talent Cheryl brings to a recording. Now only two albums in, and I am fascinated with her accomplishments and can only wonder what the next project will be. Know this; it won’t be anything like A Seeker’s Slumber. 

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder
September 21, 2021

Tracks:
01. Ithaca
02. Awæcnian
03. Circlet of Pisces
04. Unwind
05. Emerald Dreams
06. Mother Gaia (feat. Joanie Leeds & Chava Mirel)
07. Anyway You Choose...
08. Pentacle Path
09. Temperance

Contemporary Instrumental-New Age Review: Juan Sanchez-Now The Silence

Release Date: September 1, 2021

Label:  ‎Independent

Website

Shhh…Now The Silence has begun. It is time to listen only. This is for a very valid reason, what you are about to hear is the latest album from Juan Sanchez.

Juan believes in his magic that flows through his fingers to the keys. He can create a story without words. The music must be filled with expression, emotion, colors, and all that sustains life on this planet. In a physical sense that would be our environment and the food we ingest however this is more esoteric. Music, the grand healer, sweeps us away to another plane of existence, if we allow it.

In my experience that has done nothing but benefit me spiritually, mentally, and physically. It all connects from my perspective. Juan’s playing is extraordinarily beautiful and flowing. His sense of rhythm is very apparent in the music as he seamlessly moves from one track to another.

I heard nothing that did not fit the category of exceptional on this release. It is mostly all instrumental, except for vocals without words on tracks like “Tolworth.” A beautiful women’s vocalizations are as hypnotic and enchanting as they could be. It is one of my favorite tracks, and there are many. I have to be forthright and say the entire recording was enjoyed thoroughly.

Now The Silence quiets the mind, soothes the soul, and thereby relaxes the physical body. This is the main goal for anyone seeking relief, to de-stress or to just relax and let the worries of the day roll off your back. As the track “Idyllic” played I immediately identified with that word and what it meant to me. That one word encapsulates this recording perfectly.  

If a listener seeks a respite from a hard day’s work, then Now The Silence can be the miracle drug that cures all ills. You can take it without water and it starts with one click off the mouse or pushing a button on your stereo. Now that is a healthy prescription with no side effects that anyone can take.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder
September 16, 2021

Tracks:
01.Very Young Old Man 3:29    
02.Luz De Luna     3:38    
03. Now the Silence 4:45    
04. Alma 3:58    
05. Woolgathering 4:32    
06. Tolworth 5:29    
07. Idyllic 3:21    
08. Remembrance 3:20    
09. Siempre     2:35    
10. Blue Nights 5:51

Contemporary New Age Instrumental Review: David J. Pena-Winds of Change

Release Date: September 17, 2021

Label:  ‎Independent

Website

Nearly one year ago I felt the joy of listening to David J. Pena on his Thinking of You release. Once again, his energetic, cinematic, beautiful piano playing reaches new heights on Winds of Change.

The title of the recording is very appropriate for our times. Chances are you have come across similarly addressed albums. I most certainly have and feel it is quite appropriate. Over the past two years, we have been in a whirlwind of change, that is continuing. As the earth rotates so do our lives and the musical projects we are gifted with on a regular basis.

From the majestic title track filled with sounds of lightning, you will feel the impact of this music from start to finish. It is all at once anticipatory, filled with the colors of a 4th of July celebration and the conquering sounds of drums after making it yet again to the highest peak on a seemingly impossible climb at the start. Yes, this is inspirational music that excites, brims with confidence, and fills your heart with joy and hope.

In a world where we can get information in seconds and ruin an individual’s life with a sentence on social media, we all need to slow down, reset, and remember from whence we came. Maybe “Someday” we will all take stock of our lives and realize what is really important. And tracks like that give you the clearing of the consciousness and the ability to see what is in front of you and beyond, casting aside the clutter that pummels us every day everywhere we look. It seems inescapable however we do have a choice to flip that switch and let artists like David J. Pena work his magic through those wondrous ivory keys.

The Winds of Change are coming through every day and we can embrace it or walk against its force. I for one wish to listen, try to understand it, how it affects my daily life and reality, and how I as an individual can help push the change along with a little help from our friends. Thank you once again David for brightening my day and creating a clear sky with sparkling shining stars to gaze at and witness the miracle of life and wonders that are given to us. Through music, we can all heal. Now is the time to “Take Flight” and go on your “Wise Men’s Journey.”

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-New Age Music Reviews Founder
September 13, 2021

Tracks:
01. Homecoming
02. Awakening
3. The Arrival
04. Remember When
005. Winds Of Change
06. Someday
07. Windy Shadows
08. Willow
09. Wise Men’s Journey
10. Take Flight